In a recent operation, Gongbei Customs intercepted 25 imported pottery items that were reported by the Guangdong Provincial Cultural Relics Identification Station. Experts confirmed that these artifacts are genuine cultural relics, marking the first time such an import has been seized through customs procedures. The items include various types of ancient pottery, ranging from Han Dynasty clay pots and green-glazed vessels to Tang Dynasty painted ceramics and Ming Dynasty figurines.
The discovery was made during an inspection at the Gongbei Customs Express Control Center, where officers were examining shipments from Hong Kong. Among the declared goods—such as “glass flower pots†and “decorative stone dollsâ€â€”customs officials became suspicious due to the unusual nature of the packages. Upon closer examination, it was revealed that the containers held antique pottery, prompting immediate action from the authorities.
Experts identified 10 Han Dynasty items, one Northern Dynasty painted pottery, one Tang Dynasty painted maternity vase, and 13 Ming Dynasty figurines. These artifacts represent significant historical value and have been classified as cultural relics under Chinese law.
This case highlights the growing trend of cultural relics returning to China from overseas markets. With the rapid economic growth in recent years, the private art collection sector has expanded dramatically, drawing attention from both domestic and international collectors. Many individuals and institutions are now actively seeking out rare antiques, often sourcing them from Hong Kong, which serves as a major hub for Asian antiquities.
According to UNESCO, more than 1.67 million Chinese cultural relics are recorded in museums across 47 countries, but the actual number of scattered artifacts abroad is estimated to be ten times higher. Most of these were lost before 1949, and their return has become a key focus for cultural preservation efforts.
The legal framework in China allows for the lawful acquisition and circulation of cultural relics, including through auctions and purchases. This has contributed to a surge in the return of valuable artifacts. However, some individuals attempt to bypass customs regulations by concealing or misdeclaring items, which can lead to legal consequences.
Gongbei Customs has reminded the public that all goods brought into the country must be truthfully declared. Failure to do so may result in penalties under the "Regulations on the Implementation of Customs Administrative Penalties." As the demand for cultural relics continues to rise, authorities remain vigilant in ensuring that the protection and proper handling of these historical treasures are maintained.
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